“The presence of machinery in our lives is constant. It is the mechanical hand that moulds our everyday objects, the food, the clothing, tools and technology that we rely on. The extent to which we engage with mechanical production is increasing at an exponential rate.

The notion that machinery is needed in order to make our lives easier and more efficient drives us to consume, it drives us to learn more of these machines; those who do not engage are discouraged and in some instances, rendered inferior. There is no doubt that technological advances have uncovered new possibilities, but how does this in turn affect humanity on an emotional level? How does it affect our relationships with one another? Does the increased accessibility to one another sacrifice the value of the interaction?”

OUR RESPONSE raises awareness about the problem and experience of cyberbullying.

Technology, machines and devices are integral to the lives of young people.

They are a primary tool for consuming and sharing information and knowledge, and building social identities.

People who are subjected to cyberbullying are never left alone, it is incessant.

Cyberbullying affects their relationships, isolates them and restricts their ability to communicate freely and safely.”

HOW IT WORKS

The girl is being abused – constantly. The abuse is inescapable and impossible to ignore, the sound follows you and can be heard no matter where you are in the space. It drives you crazy and you want it to go away. This is what cyberbullying feels like.

The only way to stop the abuse and insults is to go up to and interact with the girl, to pay attention to her, to address the issue. The abuse is transformed into beautiful ambient sound which changes as you comfort her by touching her heart, and arms and speak or blow into her ears.

A HUGE THANK YOU to Ben and the wonderful and inspiring teachers and students at Filmbites Youth Film School who so graciously gave their time recording voice overs for this project.